European defense manufacturer KNDS has secured orders for 350 units of the latest Leopard 2 main battle tank version, the Leopard 2A8 — the highest order volume since 1992.
Before the tank’s official debut in late November at KNDS’ Munich facility, the Czech Republic, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Norway had already placed substantial orders. The company also confirmed ongoing discussions with additional customers, expecting further contracts, according to a spokesperson speaking to DPA News.
Germany’s Bundeswehr has ordered 123 tanks, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027, and plans to procure another 75. The initial shipment will be stationed with German forces in Lithuania — the country’s first permanent tank deployment abroad since World War II — to reinforce NATO’s eastern defences.
Lithuania and the Czech Republic will each receive 44 units, with Prague also set to acquire 19 additional variants for engineering, recovery, bridge-laying, and driver training. Norway is to receive 54 Leopard 2A8s.
The upgraded Leopard 2 configuration retains the established 120mm smoothbore cannon and twin 7.62mm machine guns, operated by a four-person crew. The 2A8 incorporates advanced survivability features, including the Trophy active protection system, providing 360-degree defence against guided missiles, anti-tank weapons, and drone threats. The tank also benefits from improved fire control and enhanced blast protection.
